The Best Date-Night Beauty Looks According to Science

Who doesn’t get at least the slightest wave of anxiety at the thought of date night? Whether it’s a first date or the 100th date with your main squeeze, this is the one night when it is required to look unforgettable. The thing is, leaving an impression doesn’t necessarily mean looking like a beauty queen or like you’re ready to walk the red carpet. In fact, there are looks that are proven to be more attractive to men. That’s right, scientifically proven. Check out these looks that will turn heads. And if they don’t work, don’t blame us. Blame science.

Lady in Red: A recent study by Central China Normal University showed that a majority of men found women to be more attractive when wearing red. You can play this up with your clothes or makeup. Try swiping on a cherry red lipstick or gloss. We’d be very surprised if you didn’t get a smooch at the end of the night.

Smell Like Lavender … Or a Donut: The reason we think it’s important to smell good is, well, because it is. Chicago-based smell and taste expert Dr. Alan R. Hirsch of the Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Center (STTRC) says, “As humans, we believe you are what you smell like,” says Dr. Hirsch. “If you smell good, it’s a reflection of your inner soul and overall self. If you smell bad or unpleasant, it sheds a negative light on you as a person.” According to a study by the STTRC, 40 percent of men responded positively to lavender scents, while a close 32 percent gravitated to, wait for it, the scent of donuts. This will give you an excuse to drive through a Krispy Kreme before your next date!

Easy on the Makeup: As much as you love it, take it easy on the heavy cat eye for one night. Why? A 2014 study found that a majority of men prefer women with little to no makeup. That doesn’t mean you have to go totally bare. Go sweet and simple with a light BB cream, peach blush and a little mascara. (Let’s be honest, men don’t know the difference between no makeup and minimal makeup anyway.)

Always Wear a Smile: This is a no-brainer. Confidence has long been proven as a key component in the laws of attraction. Nothing proves your confidence and genuine happiness like a great big smile. So swipe on that red lipstick and show off those pearly whites.

Let Your Long Hair Flow: As much as we’re loving the short, chic bob trend right now, research has shown that men equate long hair with health and fertility. So if you have long luscious locks, show them off on your next date and spritz a little texturizing spray (try Shu Uemera Texture Wave Dry Finishing Spray) to give them ultimate body and volume.

Whip Out the Mascara: Substantial research points toward the notion that men find large eyes appealing on women. Intensify those peepers without going overboard by enlisting the help of a lengthening and volumizing mascara (we love L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Miss Manga Mascara). Make sure to apply mascara to both the upper and lower lashes for serious lash drama.